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Best obiedence class for a large breed dog? (wolfdog)?
I am looking for a GOOD obedience / training class for our new puppy. It is an akita wolf hybrid. We live near Portland, Oregon. Anybody have suggestions? I am considering pet smart or Petco but I do not know if they would be as good as an independent instructor?
...I don't need rude comments on having a mix breed, your responses will be ignored as they mean absolutely nothing to me
4 Answers
- CDogLv 78 years agoFavorite Answer
Go through the Portland Kennel Club. They're likely to offer superior classes to Petco. I've always gone through my kennel club and have been very happy. The instructors are very experienced and passionate about dogs.
- AmaLv 68 years ago
I doubt *any* training class will take a dog that has wolf content(not many vets take them). If your dog does truly have wolf content in it, you won't have that much(any) luck training it in obedience.
But, since most of these "wolf dogs" being sold today have no actual recent wolf content in them and are usually just mixed with huskies, German shepherd or Malamutes then you might have a chance of being able to train the dog.
You can do as CDog suggested or just do an internet search for trainers/obedience classes around where you live. Call around and talk to them, read reviews and see others experience with the place. I'd avoid petco and petsmart though, since anyone can be a trainer there even if they aren't good trainers/have knowledge on training or dogs.
If your dog does actually have wolf content in it, see if you can find a rescue or some place that works with actual wolf dogs and ask them for advice or if they know of a trainer that works specifically with those dogs to help you.
- Anonymous8 years ago
Not trying to be rude, just trying to inform. It's illegal in Oregon to own a wolf hybrid without special permits/licences. It is also illegal for a vet to touch one. I don't know of any reputable trainer that would let your dog into class due to liability reasons. It's highly recommended you leave the wolf part out, just say akita mix, when speaking to anyone. All it will take is one phone call from someone who feels threatened and animal control will be at your door asking to see your paperwork.
As far as trainers, petco and petsmart aren't your best bet. Ask around local pet stores and dog parks, and make sure to go watch a class before signing up. Anything that makes you uncomfortable about the class or teacher should have you looking elsewhere. I don't know how close to Portland, but I've always loved and recommended Happygolucky. It's in the phone book. I've taken multiple classes with my dogs and referred tons of clients, everyone loves them. Good luck.
- 8 years ago
seek out a personal dog trainer and avoid petsmart "obedience" classes. If your dog really does have wolf in it, then you really should spend the extra to get a personal dog trainer and be upfront with them about your "wold hybrid" as they may not feel comfortable training it.